2. …
  3. Canal & river wildlife

The rogues' gallery of invasive species

Not all the plants and animals living in our canals and rivers are native to the UK. Some species have been introduced, often with disastrous results for our precious ecosystems.

American Signal Crayfish coming out of water onto grass American Signal Crayfish, copyright GBNNS

We know one of the reasons life is better by water is because of the wildlife that you can find there. Even in the heart of our busiest cities. Invasive species are a threat to our native waterway wildlife and this is why our team of ecologists have waged war on them.

Invasive species can have a devastating effect on our native wildlife, as they compete against each other for food, space, sunlight and water. The animals can often be bigger and more aggressive, while the plants can choke canals and rivers with their rapid growth.

We've put together a guide to the main offenders. Find out more about the species we spend our time battling with.

Terrapin sat on rock

The battle with invasives

Find out what we do to keep these alien species at bay
Group of volunteers on the towpath

Lend a hand

We're often on the lookout for people to help us in our battle against invasive species. Find out if there's a volunteering opportunity near you

Last date edited: 17 November 2020